We are the legal partner to neighborhoods and nonprofits in pursuit of more just and vibrant communities.
For the many definitions that “community” can have – whether a particular neighborhood or a group of people united around a common cause – stronger communities are built through strong organizations of people working together.
Community Law Center’s work covers the state of Maryland, but the majority of our cases are located here in Baltimore City. Many of our clients represent resident-led organizations in Black neighborhoods that have had a long history of racial inequity and oppression. Our neighborhood leaders care deeply about their communities and work tirelessly to make change happen—and we partner with them to see that it does.
What We Do
Community Law Center’s Staff and Pro Bono attorneys protect and enforce the rights of our client organizations, and partner with them on many levels.
We provide all levels of direct legal representation, ranging from helping a community organization obtain 501(c)(3) tax exemption to undertaking years-long litigation on behalf of community leaders (as pictured here), to trainings in best practices for nonprofit Boards.
Our Pro Bono Network
Our network of over 500 Pro Bono attorneys represent the very best attorneys in the industry who provide legal counsel at no charge. In 2021 alone, we took on 270 cases worth more than $600,000 in billable hours to communities and groups that couldn’t otherwise afford legal help.
Always Engaging
Whether through free calls with an attorney, legal clinics every tax season, or trainings for community leaders, we’re working every day to strengthen nonprofit communities.
Our Trainings
We provide educational workshops on a variety of topics, such as:
- How to Run an Amazing Community Association Meeting
- Financial Oversight for Nonprofit Boards
- Employment Law Basics for Small Nonprofits in MD
Advocacy
In addition to our daily work, we advocate for Baltimore’s lower-income neighborhoods through policy, regulatory, and administrative reform. Current efforts include preserving homeownership and stemming vacant property increases by reforming the Baltimore City tax sale system; we also advocate for reform within the Baltimore City Police Department.
